The story of the Royal Clarence, the oldest hotel in England that was destroyed by fire

Admiral Nelson was just one of many historical figures to stay at the hotel. Abode Exeter The oldest hotel in England was almost entirely destroyed by a fire last week.

The Royal Clarence Hotel, which dates back to the 18th century, was the first place in England to take on the French term "hotel." Before this, places offering accommodation in the UK were referred to as "inns."

But now, the building could be gone forever. The hotel's interior was entirely destroyed by the blaze on Friday morning, and all that remains is its facade, which was also damaged by the fire.

The Royal Clarence has provided rooms for travellers for almost 250 years. It started as a meeting place for the British upper classes, and has seen famous names from Admiral Lord Nelson to Clark Gable walk through its doors.

Take a tour of the historic hotel below, and discover the legacy it leaves behind.

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On Friday 28 October, a fire which started in a neighbouring art gallery hit the Royal Clarence Hotel in Exeter, destroying everything but part of the building's facade.

Before the fire, the hotel was one of the most prominent features on Exeter's Cathedral Yard.

It was founded in 1769, and is thought to be the oldest hotel in England.

The Royal Clarence was originally built as an assembly room for members of the upper classes visiting Exeter on holiday, but rooms were added in 1770.

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In September 1770, an advertisement for the property was placed by its French manager, describing it as an "hôtel". It was the first establishment in the country to adopt the French term instead of the English "inn."

The oldest inn in the country is actually the Porch House, which dates back to the 10th century.

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It was originally known simply as "The Hotel," but the name was changed several times until 1827. Eventually, it was named after the Duchess of Clarence (Queen Adelaide),the wife of King William IV who stayed there in July 1827.

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In 'A History of Exeter," historian Alexander Jenkins wrote that "The only house, worthy of notice in its parish is, The Hotel, a large commodious Inn, with elegant apartments and Hotel accommodation for people of the first quality."

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It has seen many historical figures walk through its doors. Authors Thomas Hardy and Beatrix Potter both stayed at the hotel, as well as Admiral Lord Nelson and Hollywood stars Clark Gable and Gary Cooper.

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In 2003, the hotel was bought by entrepreneur Anderew Brownsword for £4.5 million, who transformed it into a modern, four star establishment. Despite being renovated, it still contained the building's original timber framing from the 18th century.

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Since then, it became well-known for its luxurious rooms and facilities.

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It was also a popular wedding venue...

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...As well as somewhere to celebrate with family and friends.

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Now, engineers have inspected the ruined hotel, and plan to demolish what is left of the building to make the area safe.